Photovoltaic cables are constantly exposed to sunlight and the solar systems often serve under harsh environmental conditions such as high temperatures and UV radiation. On Sunny days, the site temperature of the solar system can reach to 90- 100℃. SUNKEAN solar cable are certified by TUV/CE/UL, specialized in working for solar system. If you choose ordinary PVC cables instead of photovoltaic cables, it will obviously greatly affect the service life of the solar system.

What is the difference between photovoltaic cables and ordinary cables?

The composition of solar cable is similar to other cables, including conductors, insulating layers, sheaths, and necessary fillers. The characteristics of photovoltaic cables are determined by their special insulation and sheath materials for cables, which we call cross-linked PE. After being irradiated by an irradiation accelerator, the molecular structure of the cable material will change, thereby providing various aspects of its performance.

During installation and maintenance, cables can be routed over sharp edges of roof structures while cables must withstand the compression, bending, tension, cross-tension loads, and severe impacts. If the cable sheath is not strong enough, the cable insulation will be severely damaged, affecting the service life of the entire cable or causing problems such as short circuits, fire and personal injury hazards.

Classification of photovoltaic cables

PV cables include DC cables and AC cables.

DC cables are mainly used for: series connection between PV module; parallel connection between strings, and between strings and DC distribution box (combiner box); connection between DC distribution box and inverter. Since it is basically used outdoors, it needs to be moisture-proof, sun-proof, heat-resistant, cold-resistant, and UV-resistant.

AC cables are mainly used for: between the inverter and the step-up transformer; between the step-up transformer and the power distribution device; between the power distribution device and the grid or users. The usage requirements of AC cables are basically the same as those of general power cables.

Main Points of Electrical Connection of Photovoltaic Cables

According to the series and parallel requirements of PV modules in the photovoltaic array, determine the connection method of photovoltaic modules, reasonably arrange the direction of module connection lines, determine the location and connection method of each sub-box and main box of the DC combiner box, do the best to use the most economical and reasonable connection method.

Several points should be considered for the selection of photovoltaic special cables,

1. Insulation performance

2. Heat resistance and flame retardancy

3. Moisture resistance and radiation resistance

4. Laying method and cable material

5. Specifications of cross section